Course Descriptions

Chemistry

CHE 261
Chemistry I (with Lab)
4 credits

Students will apply fundamental chemical principles to examine atomic structure, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, and thermodynamics. Conduct laboratory experiments to demonstrate proper scientific techniques and analyze chemical reactions.

CHE 262
Chemistry II (with Lab)
4 credits

Students will analyze chemical kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, and electrochemistry. Through laboratory investigations, students will conduct experiments to evaluate reaction mechanisms and interpret results using quantitative methods.

Prerequisite(s): CHE 261

CHE 363
Organic Chemistry I (with Lab)
4 credits

This course serves as an introductory exploration of organic chemistry, tailored for science majors. Students will analyze the structure, properties, and reactivity of organic molecules, apply foundational concepts to biological systems. Through laboratory exercises, students will develop essential skills in synthesis, spectroscopy, and chemical analysis, fostering a practical understanding of organic chemistry.

Prerequisite(s): CHE 262

CHE 364
Organic Chemistry II (with Lab)
4 credits

The second lab course in the organic chemistry sequence, designed for science majors needing hands-on experience. Students will apply advanced techniques in synthesis, purification, and spectroscopy, while analyzing reaction mechanisms and experimental data. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving and critical thinking, preparing students for chemistry-intensive fields.

Prerequisite(s): CHE 363

CHE 371
Physical Chemistry I
4 credits

This course integrates principles of physics and chemistry to explore molecular properties, intermolecular forces, and chemical reactions. Topics include thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, and kinetics. The laboratory component provides hands-on experience in applying physical chemistry concepts through experimental techniques and data analysis.

Prerequisite(s): CHE 261 and CHE 262

CHE 372
Physical Chemistry II
4 credits

This course builds on concepts from Physical Chemistry I, exploring advanced topics such as statistical thermodynamics, quantum chemistry, and molecular dynamics. Emphasis is placed on applying physical chemistry principles to molecular and macroscopic systems across various industries. Students will analyze complex chemical behaviors and their real-world applications.

Prerequisite(s): CHE 261 and CHE 262 and CHE 371

CHE 400
Analytical & Instrumental Chemistry
4 credits

This course introduces students to quantitative analysis of complex chemical systems, focusing on trace-level measurements and component isolation. Students will explore separation techniques, including chromatography, and evaluate competitive analytical procedures. Emphasis is placed on identifying and minimizing sources of error, optimizing experimental conditions, and achieving high accuracy and precision in chemical measurements.

Prerequisite(s): CHE 261 and CHE 262

CHE 410
Inorganic Chemistry
4 credits

This course explores the chemical and physical properties of elements, focusing on their real-world applications. Topics include bonding fundamentals of ionic and covalent compounds, periodic trends, and reactivity. The laboratory component provides hands-on experience in applying inorganic chemistry concepts through synthesis, analysis, and characterization of compounds.

Prerequisite(s): CHE 261 and CHE 262

CHE 411
Introduction to Biochemistry
4 credits

This course examines the structure, function, and interactions of biochemical compounds, including amino acids, proteins, enzymes, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids, and vitamins. Topics include pH-buffer systems, blood chemistry, and metabolic pathways. The laboratory component provides hands-on experience in biochemical techniques and their applications in research and industry.